EP 9. Using AI Ethically As A Special Education Teacher
What does it really mean to use AI ethically as a special education teacher?AI is everywhere—but how do you use it without losing your professional judgment or risking student privacy? If you’re curious, cautious, or somewhere in between, this episode is for you.I’m breaking down the real pros and cons of AI in special education, sharing why AI can support your work but never replace the human connection. Plus, I’ll walk you through how to approach AI with curiosity, clarity, and caution—the three roles every teacher needs to take on.Here’s what we’re covering:What AI can actually do well—and where it falls shortHow to use AI for lessons, documentation, and IEP writing responsiblyWhy protecting student privacy isn’t optionalThe importance of professional judgment and ethical decision-makingHow to be a smart consumer, thoughtful creator, and lifelong learner when it comes to AIIf you want to learn how to use AI tools in a way that supports your expertise and keeps your students safe, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest conversation about using AI.Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbankFor more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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E8. Setting Up a Sensory Friendly Classroom
What does “sensory-friendly” actually mean?In this episode, we’re breaking down the what, why, and how of creating a sensory-friendly classroom. Spoiler: it’s not about buying all the things—it’s about designing a space that helps students feel safe, supported, and regulated.Every student has a sensory system. And every single one can benefit from a classroom that’s calm, intentional, and responsive to different sensory needsWe’re talking:What sensory-friendly really meansSimple ways to create a supportive environment (think: calm colors, less clutter, visual schedules)15 practical tools—from movement breaks to multi-sensory approachesWhether you're just getting started or looking to make a few key changes, this episode will help you create a classroom that works better for every learner.Sensory friendly classroom ideas: https://www.mrsdscorner.com/sensory-area-in-classroom/Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbankFor more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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E7. 7 Common Misconceptions About IEPs
In this episode, Stephanie is breaking down some of the most common (and frustrating) misconceptions about IEPs—the ones every special education teacher has heard at some point. If you’ve ever been told “that’s just how it is,” this episode clears the air and sets the record straight.What You’ll Learn:– Why special education does not mean separate education– What happens when an IEP needs to be changed before the annual meeting– The truth about accommodations and “unfair advantages”– Why no two students with the same disability should have the same IEP– Whether students with IEPs can be held to grade-level standards– What inclusion actually means for special ed and gen ed teachers– Why general education teachers must understand each student’s IEPWhether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with reminders, clarifications, and myth-busting truths to help you advocate with confidence.Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbankFor more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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E6. Teaching with Intention During ESY
In this episode, Stephanie shares how to approach teaching during Extended School Year (ESY) with purpose and clarity. If you're walking into a summer classroom wondering what to actually teach, this episode breaks it all down—so your time is meaningful, manageable, and data-driven.What You’ll Learn:– The true purpose of ESY (hint: it’s not content coverage)– Where to start with each student’s IEP– How to choose goals that matter most– Tips for simple planning using themes, centers, and crafts– Ideas to make ESY fun while still focusing on skill maintenance– How to document data efficiently and prepare a strong handoff for the fallWhether you’re teaching ESY for the first time or looking to streamline your approach, this episode will help you make every minute count.Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbankFor more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
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E5. Accommodations vs. Modifications
Accommodations and modifications aren’t the same thing—and knowing the difference is key to providing the right support. In this episode, Stephanie is breaking down what each one means, how they impact student learning, and why getting it right in the IEP matters.Here’s what you’ll hear:The difference between how a student learns vs. what they’re expected to learnClear examples of accommodations and modificationsWhy this section of the IEP can’t be a copy-and-paste jobThe 9 types of adaptations every team should understandHow specially designed instruction fits into the pictureWhen you understand the difference, you’re better equipped to support students in a way that builds on their strengths—without lowering expectations.Download the FREE IEP Goal Bank www.theintentionaliep.com/podcastgoalbankFor more information, check out more of Stephanie's resources:https://www.theintentionaliep.com/the-intentional-iep-book/https://www.theintentionaliep.com/https://www.facebook.com/theintentionaliephttps://www.instagram.com/theintentionaliep
Are you drowning in IEP paperwork and feeling overwhelmed by the special education process?
The Intentional IEP Podcast is your go-to resource for teachers looking to navigate the complexities of Individualized Education Programs, write effective IEPs, and tackle all things related to special education.
Join Stephanie, a dual-certified special education teacher, IEP coach, and author, as she transforms the overwhelming IEP process into manageable, actionable steps. Drawing from years of classroom experience, Stephanie understands the challenges you face—from writing legally compliant IEP goals to managing special education documentation while still finding time to actually teach.
Every Monday, you can expect conversations like:
Evidence-based IEP writing strategies that save you time
Special education compliance guidelines made simple
Effective IEP goal development techniques
Data collection methods that work in real classrooms
Practical special needs accommodations and modifications
IEP best practices to invoke a more collaborative IEP process
Breaking down IEP implementation
The ins and outs of IEP meetings
Whether you're a special education teacher, general education teacher collaborating on inclusive education, school psychologist, or educational administrator, The Intentional IEP Podcast will provide you with the support to help students with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and other exceptional needs.
Some weeks, Stephanie shares her expertise on best practices for IEP meetings, parent communication, and special education advocacy. Other weeks, expert guests join the conversation to provide diverse perspectives on disability services and educational interventions.
Stop spending your evenings writing IEPs and start implementing a more intentional approach to special education.
Together, we'll focus less on paperwork and more on what really matters—creating inclusive classrooms where all students can thrive. Because every student deserves an education plan that's as unique as they are.
Let’s make IEPs more effective, more efficient, and way less stressful—together.
Welcome to The Intentional IEP Podcast!
Ireland